ROCHESTER, Minn. – Republicans endorsed candidates for state auditor, secretary of state and Minnesota attorney general at their state convention in Rochester Friday.
Republicans chose political newcomer Jim Schultz as their candidate for attorney general. Schultz was chosen from a field of rivals which included Doug Wardlow, their candidate last time, plus former state Senator and District Judge Tad Jude.
Schultz accuses Democratic Attorney General Keith Ellison of supporting moves to defund the Minneapolis Police.
“He supported the Minneapolis Charter Amendment, which eliminated the minimum requirements for policing in Minneapolis,” Schultz said. “It even alluded to the possibility that police may not even be needed in the city of Minneapolis.”
Minnesota Democratic Party Chairman Ken Martin calls Schultz “a hedge-fund lawyer with no experience in a Minnesota courtroom” and says “Minnesotans need an experienced Attorney General who will protect their rights and pocketbooks.”
Delegates left the toughest job for Saturday – that of choosing their candidate for governor. They have until 6 p.m. to make their decision.
Former State Senator Scott Jensen is the front-runner in the latest poll. He believes delegates will make their decision by the deadline.
“I believe the delegates are absolutely compelled to give an endorsement,” Jensen said. “They’d be very disappointed if they don’t. So, I think there’s a strong commitment.”
